I’d never stayed at a timeshare property. I’d never even visited one. Doesn’t that sound odd since I travel so frequently? I honestly thought that timeshares were for older people and they restricted you to one location indefinitely. How naive is that? But I bet I’m not alone, right? Then, I had the opportunity to visit Marriott’s Harbour Lake and my opinion completely changed. The property offers a maritime theme throughout with a pirate-inspired pool, Florida Falls (an interactive water playground), and a miniature golf course. The activities schedule includes experiences for the entire family with everything from tot music sessions to evening wine tasting socials. The rooms and villas are fresh with bold colors and separate living and dining areas with plenty of room for the extended family. It’s a whole new world of possibilities.

The pirate theme had children of all ages beaming with excitement. Fun times were had all around at Shipwreck Landing, an exciting themed pool area featuring the incredible pirate ship, complete with waterslides and water cannons. Key Lime Greens, the on-site putt-putt golf course, was a relaxing oasis complete with waterfalls and palm tree shade. The interactive water playground, Florida Falls, was designed with both younger and older children in mind. Two massive buckets made big waves when they dumped water over the playground and several mini water spouts would appeal to the more timid water explorer. Families beware, once you set foot on the Harbour Lake property, it’s difficult to leave. It’s better than the theme parks with none of the stress.

Wine tasting socials, family volleyball, water balloon toss, yoga, painting, arts and crafts, and movies are only a select few of the countless activities offered at Marriott’s Harbour Lake. In just two and a half days, I participated in family volleyball, balloon toss, mini golf, wine tasting, basketball, movie night, ceramic painting, and an Iron Chef competition. I actually heard a young boy, around 6 years of age, say that he’d rather stay at the resort than go to a theme park. It was a true testament to what Harbour Lake had to offer.

There are certain things about accommodations that make all the difference when traveling with a family. I don’t think it’s too much to ask for a fan in the bathroom, good shower pressure, comfortable beds, enough towels, and black-out curtains. While it’s not a necessity, a separate living and sleeping area is a welcomed addition as well. As I explored the two-bedroom villa at Harbour Lake, I was pleasantly surprised to find all of my desired amenities and more. Each bathroom had a fan, plenty of lighting, soaps, and towels, and excellent shower pressure. The full kitchen included a dishwasher, fridge, stove, and microwave. The living area’s creative seating arrangement was more than sufficient for the entire family and the patio’s view was gorgeous. The tastefully decorated bedrooms weren’t just a treat for the eyes. The beds were plush and the black-out curtains gave me the opportunity to sleep in – something that hadn’t happened in months. I had all the conveniences of home and all of the luxuries of vacation.

I found both luxury and convenience at a property that caters to the entire family. I’d never experienced such a detailed activities schedule, even at an all-inclusive resort; it created a friends and family environment with staff and guests. The villa was fresh and creative in design, providing comfort and a feeling of home. I regretted not bringing Athena and Darren along with me because it was the ideal playground for all of us. I look forward to bringing Athena to Orlando for the first time; it’s a magical place for children, but if she wants to spend all of her time at Harbour Lake, I won’t be the least bit surprised or disappointed.

*This journey was made possible with help from Marriott Vacation Club; however, as you probably know by now, all opinions & thoughts are my own.*

Comments

With a family of 6 it is hard to commit to travel. It’s hard to go to the grocery store. We need something like this so we make a vacation important. The kids are missing out on travel because life is too busy.

I love watching your travels and even more now that you have a family. You give us hope.